Denmark proposes allowing teachers to use physical force to remove disruptive pupils

Denmark is considering a major change to school rules that would broaden when teachers can intervene physically with pupils who seriously disrupt lessons, insult others or refuse to follow instructions. The proposal, discussed in October 2026, has ignited a public debate about classroom order, children's rights and legal safeguards.

What the reform would allow

Under the current regulations physical intervention in Danish public schools is primarily allowed when a pupil poses a danger to themselves, others or school property. The draft law would extend those grounds to include certain cases of serious disruption and harassment of classmates.

Specifically, teachers could in some circumstances hold a pupil, prevent them from leaving a place, or take them to another room against their will. The government’s proposal lists concrete examples: a pupil who throws food during a home economics class and keeps doing so despite warnings, or a pupil who plays loud music from a phone and refuses to turn it down, switch off the device or hand it over to the teacher.

Supporters say clearly defined authorities would help teachers protect other pupils and their right to uninterrupted lessons. They point to research commissioned by the Danish Ministry of Education showing a significant problem with violence among pupils.

The study by Epinion and Als Research found that physical violence between pupils was reported in more than half of classes during a single year, with the problem particularly pronounced in the lower grades of primary school.

But opponents warn the change could damage trust between pupils and teachers and introduce legal uncertainty. In an earlier review of the draft, more than 500 education experts and nine non-governmental organisations cautioned that widening the use of physical force is not an appropriate solution to misbehaviour.

Researcher Louise Klinge warned the new rules could intensify conflicts and normalise the use of physical force as a way to settle disputes, citing shortages of specialist staff and excessive digitalisation as contributing factors. Rasmus Kjeldal, director of a child rights organisation, said there is a risk teachers will cease to be seen primarily as educators and supporters.

The Danish Council for Children has highlighted legal ambiguities: who will judge whether a teacher’s reaction was proportionate, and what protections pupils will have if they believe an intervention was unjustified. Critics argue that instead of relying on physical measures, the focus should be on more specialist support, violence prevention and improving school working conditions.

Photo: press material from the event